Orlando Pirates Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou Addresses Tshegofatso Mabasa Absence

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has spoken publicly about striker Tshegofatso Mabasa’s notable absence from recent matchday squads. Mabasa, who last featured in September, has been the subject of speculation regarding contract disputes and a possible exit, with his current deal set to expire in June 2026.

Despite the rumours, Ouaddou insists Mabasa’s omission is purely tactical. Speaking on 947’s MSW, the coach emphasized that squad competition and match requirements dictate his selections.

“To be honest, many people ask me that question. First of all, I don’t have any issue with Mabasa, he’s a player that I love. He’s a good guy. He’s a good striker,” Ouaddou said. “But now I have a lot of strikers. I have a lot of players, and tactically, sometimes, regarding the defence I’m going to play, the team I’m going to play, I’m playing high, sometimes mid-block. My game model is very demanding.”

He highlighted the physical demands of his system, noting that pressing, running, and defensive responsibilities influence selection. “There are a lot of runs, a lot of pressing, a lot of demand in terms of fitness, and with my staff, we are choosing the players regarding the opponent that we are going to play,” he explained. “Sometimes if they leave a space behind the back four, sometimes if they build from the back, we need somebody to chase and to defend. So he had the opportunity to play.”

Ouaddou also clarified that the team has multiple options for each attacking role. “I have Makgopa, Mbuthuma, Radiopane, Mabasa, Luthuli, five players for one position. And of course, sometimes some fans can feel that there is an injustice, but there is no injustice. It’s just rules. I can play only 11 players on the pitch. It is really a competition.”

Mabasa, 29, has made nine appearances across all competitions this season, scoring four goals and providing one assist. His absence has drawn attention because of his productivity and experience. Ouaddou’s comments suggest that the Buccaneers’ selection policy is focused on tactical suitability and squad rotation rather than contract issues, giving fans clarity ahead of the upcoming fixtures.